Hyderabad: Justice B Vijaysen Reddy of the Telangana High Court on Monday criticised the Greater Hyderabad Municipal Corporation (GHMC) for failing to act against illegal constructions despite having enforcement officers assigned to each area.
The judge was hearing a petition filed by Kamsali Raghuveera Achari, a resident of Guttala Begumpet near Madhapur, who challenged a demolition notice issued by the civic body. During the proceedings, the court questioned the role of GHMC staff during the construction phase. “What do these officials do until the entire building is completed? Do they simply turn a blind eye?” the judge asked.
He noted that GHMC typically issues “speaking orders” only after being directed by the court—by which time, he said, the illegal construction is already complete. He described the subsequent demolition process as nothing more than “drama.”
Justice Reddy also pointed to the contradiction in GHMC’s actions. While officials claim ignorance during illegal construction, they are quick to identify and tax the same buildings once finished. He called the pattern a reflection of systemic inaction and lack of enforcement.
Achari argued that the demolition notice violated provisions of the GHMC Act and sought a court directive to cancel it. He also requested protection from coercive measures and urged the court to order a decision on his pending application under the state’s building regularisation scheme.
Taking note of the submissions, the court ordered that status quo be maintained until the BRS application is resolved. The case has been adjourned to next month.